THE PROUD KING

Southland Times, Issue 23989, 2 December 1939, Page 2 (Supplement)

THE PROUD KING

This is the story of a proud king who ruled a mighty country, but Whom none of his people loved.

One Sunday, in church, the king heard the choir singing about those who were mighty being put down, and those who were humble being lifted up—and he was suddenly angry.

“No power could ever put me down!” he said to himself, and he vowed to tell his courtiers so after the service. As it happened, however—he could never remember how—he "fell asleep; and when he woke it was to find the church empty. “How dare they leave me here alone!” he cried, and then he had a shock—for he found himself dressed in rags! “My courtiers shall be punished for this!” he thundered, and, rising, he hurried out and made.his way to the palace. But here another surprise awaited him—for another king was seated on the throne; a king who looked kind. “Who are you?” asked this new king.

“I am the rightful king and ruler of this country!” shouted the proud king. But the new king shook his head, and turned to an attendant. “Poor fellow, he is ill,” he said. “Take him down to the kitchen and see that he has food. He shall become one of my servants.” And although the proud king shouted

and struggled, he was taken down to the palace kitchens, and there the servants —who did not recognise him —laughed at him for daring to believe he was their king. Well, there was great excitement all over the palace because the real king had suddenly turned so generous and kind, and all the servants said how much they loved him. The proud king listened, and although at first he was angry, he

began, after a time, to realise how wrong he had been, and wished with all his heart that he might have the chance to rule again—and to rule kindly, like this stranger.

At last, one Sunday, the king and all the courtiers again went to church, and the proud king, who was now a servant, went with them. There were tears in his eyes as he listened to the singing, and remembered how angry he had been at the words the choir had sung. And then suddenly, when he looked up, it was to find the church once more empty—except for one man; the strange new king.

“To-night I hand you back your robes; and your throne,” said the stranger; and all at once the proud king knew that the other man was an angel. “I read the thoughts which were passing in your mind during this service, and I know you‘have learnt your lesson. Take your crown, new king, and rule your people wisely, even as I have done.”

And scarcely had the proud king dropped on his knees before him than the angel vanished, and he was left with the robe and crown in his’ hands. But from that day the once-proud king ruled his people justly and kindly; his silly pride had gone for good.